5 STAR TIPHere’s a delicious brunch dish. I prepare this breakfast bake when I have ham leftovers and day-old bread on hand. I love the fact I can prepare it the night before, which allows me to focus on making other dishes for the meal.
—ELIZABETH HESSE SPRINGVILLE, NY
PREP: 15 MIN. + CHILLING • BAKE: 45 MIN. • MAKES: 10-12 SERVINGS
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup butter, cubed
10 slices white bread, cubed
2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
1/2 pound process American cheese, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1. In a large skillet, saute the green pepper in butter until tender. Remove the green pepper, reserving drippings. Combine the green pepper, bread and ham; place in an ungreased 13x9-in. baking dish.
2. Add cheese to the drippings; cook and stir over low heat until the cheese melts. Pour it over the bread mixture. Whisk the eggs, milk and mustard; pour over the cheese. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight.
3. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake it, uncovered, at 350° for 45-55 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving.
5 STAR TIP
Day-old bread cubes are made from day-old bread that’s been sliced into cubes. Start with a good-quality firm bread that is beginning to dry out—it will better absorb liquid ingredients and seasonings. Using fresh bread can sometimes result in a casserole that is overly moist and compact.